Episode Details

Copper thieves are crippling Washington’s roads with brazen, organized wire thefts—stealing critical infrastructure like ramp meters and safety lights, costing WSDOT hundreds of thousands. Thieves bypass even reinforced junction boxes, sometimes posing as workers to evade detection. Replacing stolen wiring can cost over $70,000, and some high tower lights are now unreplaceable. WSDOT is switching to aluminum wiring and partnering with police, but stopping these crews requires public help: report anyone acting suspicious near junction boxes—even if they’re wearing a vest. The real fight lies in dismantling the theft rings and their buyers, a battle that’s far from over.

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